urban future organization (au)

new orleans. louisiana. u.s.a.

as the world's oceans warm due to global warming, the frequency and severity of hurricanes is set to increase. In vulnerable parts of the world like new orleans, USA, there is a need for a new type of house that can withstand the forces of the hurricane; that can adapt to new living conditions. the aerodynamic shotgun house is raised above the ground to limit exposure to flooding, and shaped to maximize wind flow. the bone-like external skeleton gives the surface of the house a dimpled effect, further reducing the wind drag effect. the skin is structural (semi-stressed skin) in order to prevent deformation of the aerodynamic surface. the building is constructed from plastics ; fibreglass, and takes advantage of the mass production and customization technologies of the manufacturing industry.